The Pennsylvania State Grange announced that members in good standing have the opportunity to receive educational assistance through several Pennsylvania Grange Foundation scholarship and loan programs this spring. Through this financial assistance, the Grange hopes to promote studies in agriculture and related fields with the goal of further supporting rural communities and bolstering local Granges. Several scholarships are available.

Established in 1996 by state delegate action, the Pennsylvania State Grange Foundation Scholarship is available to students entering their junior or senior year in college, and financial need must be demonstrated. Applicants are eligible to apply for a $500 scholarship each year, for a maximum of two years. Up to four scholarships will be awarded.

The Deaf Interpreter Scholarship is open to individuals enrolled in a credible program leading to certification as an interpreter for the deaf. The Grange will award a $250 grant each year.

The Grange Scholarship Endowment at Penn State University recognizes the outstanding work of an undergraduate student enrolled in his or her sophomore, junior, or senior year at any campus of Pennsylvania State University. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. The recipient of this scholarship will be selected by the Penn State Office of Student Aid Scholarship Committee from nominees named by the Pennsylvania State Grange Scholarship Committee. The $1,500 scholarship will be awarded for one academic year and may be renewed for subsequent years provided the recipient continues to meet the conditions of eligibility and no other eligible students are identified.

The Rhone Grant is given in honor of Leonard Rhone, the third Master of the Pennsylvania State Grange. This grant is available to students pursuing a degree in agriculture or human development and family services at Penn State University. One scholarship in the amount of $300 will be available each year. Eligible candidates must be a member in good standing and secure a recommendation from both the master of their Subordinate and Pomona Granges.

Santee Student Loans were established by Ellis M. Santee, an active Grange member and rural doctor, to help Grange members obtain an education. Grange members or their children may apply for one of five $2,000 loans if they are a full-time student at any institution accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). If selected, students will be required to sign a promissory note to receive the loan. Repayment of this interest-free loan shall begin within six months of graduating or leaving school. The minimum repayment requirement is $30 per month per $1,000 borrowed, payable over a three-year period.

The application deadline is Monday, May 1. For more information, call the state office at 717-737-8855 or visit http://www.pagrange.org/grange-foundation.html for an application.